Toni Kroos Explains Cristiano Ronaldo's Starter Role
Toni Kroos explains why Cristiano Ronaldo remains a starter for Portugal at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The former Real Madrid midfielder believes Ronaldo is still the best attacker Portugal have got.
Cristiano Ronaldo started for Portugal in their 1-1 draw against DR Congo on Wednesday, June 17.
He played a full 90 minutes but failed to make much of an impact, with only 25 touches during the game.
Toni Kroos played four seasons alongside Ronaldo at Real Madrid and has insight into his abilities.
Kroos claims Ronaldo does not play simply because his name is Cristiano Ronaldo.
The 2014 FIFA World Cup winner said Ronaldo is still Portugal's best attacker in the area.
Ronaldo has now earned 229 caps for Portugal over 23 years and is the most-capped footballer in history.
He also holds the record for most international goals, having scored 143 times for Portugal.
Portugal have Goncalo Ramos in their ranks, who is a natural number nine but has played mostly as a substitute.
Ramos only played 1704 minutes of first-team football last season and scored 12 goals.
Cristiano Ronaldo became the oldest outfield player in the history of the FIFA World Cup on Wednesday, June 17.
He featured up front for Roberto Martinez's side as they had to settle for a 1-1 draw against DR Congo.
Aged 41 years and 132 days, he has become the oldest outfield player in the history of the World Cup.
Ronaldo, along with his eternal rival Lionel Messi, has also set the record for most appearances in World Cups.
They have both played in six World Cups so far and have scored in five of them.
Should Ronaldo score in this FIFA World Cup, he will set another record for scoring in six World Cup campaigns.
The five-time Ballon d'Or winner's best run in the competition was back in 2006 when they made the semis and lost 1-0 to France.
Toni Kroos' comments highlight Ronaldo's enduring quality as a footballer.
Ronaldo's experience and goal-scoring ability make him a valuable asset to Portugal.
His record-breaking appearances and goals in the World Cup are a testament to his dedication and skill.